How to Use the Restroom while Road-Tripping with a Dog

Taking Bathroom Breaks with a Dog on Your Road Trip

One common issue traveling pet owners have is figuring out how to use the restroom while road-tripping with a dog. This can be a difficult situation to navigate because many places are not dog-friendly, but everyone has to go to the bathroom at some point. So how do you navigate bathroom breaks with a dog on your road trip?  Don’t worry, we will go over several options so you can choose the best one for your current situation.

Using the Restroom When You Are Traveling with a Dog

Though it can be overwhelming, don’t let a little thing like bathroom breaks prevent you from traveling with your pup! Believe it or not, there are 4 main ways you can relieve yourself while keeping your dog safe and sound. These options will change based on temperature, who you are traveling with, where you are traveling, and your dog’s personality and behavior.

Take Turns with Your Travel Buddy

The easiest way to use the bathroom when on the road is simply to take turns with your travel buddy. And luckily, many road trips involve a human friend or family member! By taking turns, you will be able to stop anywhere with a bathroom with no concerns because one person will always be able to be with your dog. Not only will your pup never have to be left alone, but this method can also save you time.

Since your dog also needs to stretch their legs and use the bathroom too, this method will give them twice as long outside of the car. They will get more time to enjoy new smells, go to the bathroom, drink water, and simply enjoy being out of the car!

Find a Pet-Friendly Bathroom

If you would rather bring your dog along with you when you use the bathroom, you can always stop at a pet-friendly place. Nowadays, there are plenty of places that allow pets. You can bring your dog into any pet store or place like Lowes, Home Depot, and even Michael’s.

This option works great if you are traveling in a more populated area though it can be difficult in rural areas, or on toll roads. Depending on your dog, the weather, or your personal preference, driving a bit out of the way to find a pet-friendly bathroom may be worth it.

Leave Your Dog in the Car

One simple straightforward option is simply to leave your pup in the car while you use the restroom as long as the weather is agreeable. This means that it can’t be too hot, cold, or humid. Unfortunately, hundreds of pets die every year from heat exhaustion in cars. Simply cracking a window may not be enough to keep your pet safe during the hot summer months. Remember that the outside temperature can be very different than the inside of your car.

To help your car stay cool, pick a shady spot and consider leaving the car’s A/C on (with the doors locked). If you are concerned about someone stealing your vehicle, I recommend parking it closer to the entrance or where you can keep an eye on it and your pup. Other options involve bringing along road trip supplies for your dog like a portable A/C or fan to use in the car specifically for your pets.

If you end up leaving your dog in the car, try to keep your bathroom visit as short as possible. This means that if the line is long, consider going back to your car to wait until the line goes down or try a different bathroom.

Break the Rules

Breaking the rules should never be your first choice because it does give pet owners a bad name. Sometimes, this may be the only way for you to use the bathroom and keep your pet safe. If you do find yourself in this situation, there are several steps you can take to make sure you and your dog don’t make other people uncomfortable and are less likely to get in trouble.

• Never misrepresent your dog as a service dog.
• If there is an attendant on duty, ask them permission to bring your pup into the bathroom and explain why it’s not safe for your dog to be left in the car.
• Try to use restrooms that have doors that lead directly outside so you are not bringing your dog through stores or food service areas.
• Don’t linger, go straight to the bathroom and straight back outside when you are done.
• Use a pet carrier or backpack if you have one. For whatever reason, people tend to be more forgiving if your pet’s feet don’t touch the ground.
• Be respectful. Don’t bring your dog into a crowded bathroom or around people that seem uncomfortable around your dog. If there’s a line, wait until it goes down before you enter.

Time to Hit the Head and the Road

As a dog mom who frequently travels with her dogs, I admit to having used all these methods while on our road trips. The worry about what to do with your dog in different situations is a common concern of pet owners that often prevents them from taking their pups on more vacations with them. With a little extra training and planning, you can be prepared for pretty much any situation that comes up. Don’t let a simple thing like using the bathroom get in the way of you and your dog making some wonderful memories together.

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